Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez is confident that his side learnt a valuable lesson in losing their Carling Cup second round match to Crystal Palace last night.
The Latics were beaten 2-1 by the Eagles at Selhurst Park and although disappointed, the Spaniard is only looking at the positives from the early cup exit.
"I felt we learned two or three players will be competing for the first team and that's what this competition should be about for us," said Martinez.
"We can't participate in the League Cup at the expense of losing other players. Just a week ago some of the players were travelling all over the world with international weekends and then we played a very difficult game at Manchester City and we have to share the effort.
"If you want to be successful in the League Cup you have to be able to do it with a squad. I was happy with certain players who showed they are ready.
"It was a great exercise. And what we need to do now is make sure in the FA Cup the whole squad is ready and sharp.
"We have players who have never played in the English game who needed to get that taste and I feel we are a stronger squad because of that game."
